Learn how Prison Reform Can Cut Crime and Save Money

Prison reform is catching on. According to testimony before the Legislative Study Committee on Reducing Recidivism, 18 states enacted “big and comprehensive reform” and 15 states enacted “significant reform” during the last decade. Wisconsin was the only state to move backwards.

Residents in red, blue, and purple states discovered that prison reform can cut the crime rate, as well as benefit the taxpayers. In Minnesota, for example, the crime rate decreased by 6 percent from 2009 to 2014, while Wisconsin’s rate increased 12 percent. In FY 2013, state and local governments in our state spent $259 per capita on corrections and Minnesota spent $163.

We can take advantage of lessons learned and avoid costly prison expansion.

Join State Representative Evan Goyke, gubernatorial candidates, and civil rights leaders for a discussion of a key element of reform: the state’s revocation policy. WISDOM, a faith-based state organization, is sponsoring the forum on January 17, from 12:00 to 2:00 at Grace Episcopal Church, 116 W. Washington Ave. in Madison.

More than 4,500 people are in Wisconsin prisons for revocation without a new conviction. Each year, thousands of others are held in county jails or the Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility waiting investigation of alleged rule violations. Other states have moved to more just and economically efficient policies.

Rep. Goyke is introducing three bills based on successful reforms in other states. Click here for his press release and background information.